MUSIC students at Stratford College are getting hands-on experience of working with professional musicians as part of an innovative scheme to attract leading performers to play at the college.

Some of the first year students on the National Diploma in Popular Music course have formed a band to support legendary New York blues performer Popa Chubby in a concert at the college next Tuesday.

Ed Pinner, who is deputy head of the college's school for creative studies, said the gig was the latest in a series of visits by professional musicians and performers. "The reason I wanted him here is I want to make Stratford College a venue for professional performers," said Mr Pinner.

As well as those performing on stage, one of the college's technical students will be working on the lighting for the Popa Chubby show.

"This is not a technical exercise, but the real thing," said Mr Pinner.

Among the performers who have worked with the students since the course began four years ago are Sandy Dillon, who is signed to Icelandic pop star Bjork's record label, Richard Strange of 70s band Doctors of Madness, who recorded an album with the students, and the world-famous dance troupe Stomp.

Even when the students are not working with professional performers, they have the benefit of an insider's view of the music industry from college lecturer Dave Coulter, who for six years was fiddle player for chart-topping band The Pogues.

"The course is not only about music skills but making sure the students understand the business side of the music industry," said Mr Pinner.